The Best Surf Lessons in San Diego

Progressive Surf Academy was born from the philosophy that surfing lessons should be about more than just pushing people into waves and yelling “stand up, stand up!!!”

Our approach to surf instruction teaches all aspects of surfing – proper technique, knowledge of and respect for the ocean, wave selection and, of course, having a blast in the water.

Surfing, after all, is our favorite pastime, and we want to make it yours.

Christian Marcher
Owner – Progressive Surf Academy

Ratings on Yelp, Trip Advisor, and Google

Private Surf Lessons

Nothing beats time in the water with an expert surf instructor. Private lessons are the best way to learn how to surf or take your skills to the next level – excellent for all ages and abilities.

We offer 1 – 3-hour private surf lessons for children, beginner, intermediate, and advanced surfers.

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GROUP Surf Lessons

Perfect for families and friends who want to enjoy the thrills of surfing together. We make sure there is at least one surf instructor for every 3 students for a safe and fun experience.

Group lessons last for 2 hours and require at least 3 surfers. We also offer semi private lessons for 2 surfers.

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STAND UP PADDLEBOARDING

Stand up paddling is a fast growing sport that can be enjoyed regardless of fitness level or age. You can explore rivers, lakes, flat ocean waters or surf in waves – the possibilities are endless!

We offer private, semi-private, and group stand up paddleboard lessons and paddleboard tours.

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ONE-ON-ONE SURF COACHING

Our pro surf coaches will work with you to develop a plan to progress and catch more waves. We combine in water coaching with cutting edge film analysis to help surfers achieve their goals.

Whether you are a beginner trying to gain confidence to go out on your own or a competitive surfer looking to break through the ranks, we can help.

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““AWESOME SURF LESSONS!””

My sister and I recently took our VERY FIRST surf lessons with Christian this past weekend and it was AWESOME!!! I had SO much fun surfing for the first time (ACTUALLY SURFING)! Totally going to go back for more private lessons soon!!

– Victoria S., Solana Beach, CA

Professional Surfing Instructions For All Abilities

Beginner

New to the water? No problem – we guarantee you will catch waves and have a blast.

Intermediate

Take your skills up a notch – intermediate surfers usually see immediate gains from lessons.

Advanced

Unleash your full potential – perfect your surfing by working on your power carves, barrel riding or air game.

Multiple Locations To Serve Our Students

We offer lessons in several great locations around San Diego. We will help find the spot that is best for your surfing abilities and wave preferences.

  • Solana Beach
  • Encinitas
  • Cardiff by the Sea
  • Del Mar
  • San Diego County
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About Progressive Surf Academy

“We don't just push you into waves, we teach you how to surf”

Your surf lesson will be fully individualized to match your needs and surfing abilities. Before we even get into the water, we aim to get to know each of our students during an on land briefing and orientation. Once in the water, we continue to adapt our teaching style as we get to know you better.

Your instructor, Christian, has over twelve years of experience teaching surfers of all levels. The majority of his experience came from working with the infamous “Uncle Bryan” and the Sunset Suratt Surf School on the North Shore of Oahu.

As he has travelled all over the world to surf, he has a vast knowledge base to share. In addition to being an accomplished surfer, Christian is an excellent and patient teacher who can adapt his methods to your individual needs.

Recently we launched a Mindfulness Based Surf Therapy Program to help youth with mental health concerns achieve psychological wellness.

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Progressive Surf Academy

“Best Surfing Lessons in San Diego!!”

My wife and I had the best experience last week surfing for the first time last week! Christian was an amazing instructor who thoroughly explained the process of surfing. The beach location he selected was unbelievable. We felt like it was a private resort.

– Ben M, San Diego, California

Ready to Surf?

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